Surgical Tech Practice Exam

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Prepare for your Surgical Tech Exam using comprehensive quizzes and practice questions tailored to enhance your knowledge and readiness. Each question comes with hints and detailed explanations, helping you confidently approach your test.

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What must always be available in the operating room after a thyroidectomy?

Endotracheal tube
Tracheotomy tray
Emergency medications
Ventilator machine

The correct answer is: Tracheotomy tray

In the context of post-thyroidectomy care, having a tracheotomy tray readily available in the operating room is crucial. During thyroid surgery, there is a risk of swelling or complications that may compromise the airway. In the event of severe edema or unexpected bleeding, the ability to perform an emergency tracheotomy can be lifesaving. While other items such as emergency medications and an endotracheal tube are important in managing various emergencies, the specific nature of thyroid surgeries and the associated risk of airway obstruction make a tracheotomy tray a necessary precaution. A ventilator machine, although useful for respiratory support, does not directly address the immediate need for securing the airway in a crisis following thyroidectomy. Therefore, maintaining a tracheotomy tray in the operating room is essential for ensuring patient safety during and after the procedure.